TECHNICAL POINT OF CONTACT (TPOC)
Frank Cruz
Kip Temple
PROJECTED CMMC LEVEL REQUIREMENT
Level 2 (Self)
TECHNOLOGY AREAS
Electronics
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Information Systems
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Sensors
MODERNIZATION PRIORITIES
Integrated Network Systems-of-Systems
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Quantum Sciences
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Trusted AI and Autonomy
KEYWORDS
Quantum sensing; Rydberg sensors; telemetry; ultra-sensitive receivers; bandwidth optimization; contested environments; ABMS integration; electromagnetic spectrum; advanced quantum technologies; DoD innovation; spectrum scarcity; system prototyping
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this Phase I SBIR effort is to investigate the feasibility and foundational principles for a highly sensitive quantum telemetry receiver, capable of outperforming current classical receivers by orders of magnitude. This research seeks to leverage advanced quantum sensing technologies to significantly enhance signal detection sensitivity, reduce frequency restrictions, and enable broadband operation across licensed and unlicensed frequency spectra. This initiative aims to address critical telemetry challenges in contested and congested environments by achieving improved signal fidelity, reduced noise interference, and enhanced operational flexibility. Phase I will focus on exploratory R&D activities, including defining key performance parameters, evaluating quantum-based component technologies, and validating the concept through modeling, simulation, and initial experiments. These results will inform transition feasibility and lay the groundwork for further development and prototyping in subsequent phases, with applications aligned to Air Force operational priorities, including Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) integration.
DESCRIPTION
The current constraints on telemetry frequency allocations, driven by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) spectrum auctioning to private cellular sectors, present a significant challenge for the Department of Defense (DoD), particularly within the Major Range Test and Facility Base (MRTFB) infrastructure. These challenges are further amplified in contested and congested environments, where signal fidelity, interference mitigation, and operational flexibility are critical for mission success. Traditional, or classical, telemetry systems face limitations in terms of bandwidth availability, signal sensitivity, and adaptability to shifting spectrum needs. As a result, the modernization of telemetry systems through cutting-edge technologies is essential to maintaining a competitive advantage.
This SBIR topic seeks to develop and validate an ultra-sensitive quantum telemetry receiver based on quantum sensing technologies, specifically utilizing Rydberg sensors. Quantum sensors represent a transformative approach due to their extreme sensitivity and intrinsic wide-band frequency operation capabilities, enabling them to exploit underutilized portions of the spectrum without reliance on traditional licensed frequency bands. This innovation provides a dual benefit: addressing bandwidth scarcity and significantly enhancing signal detection performance across a broad operational scope.
The desired outcome of this project is a fully validated prototype quantum telemetry receiver that can outperform classical systems with respect to signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), operational bandwidth, and environmental adaptability. Leveraging this solution will reduce the reliance on leased spectrum channels a cost-intensive necessity in traditional systems and preserve investments in existing telemetry infrastructure by enabling incremental upgrades rather than full system overhauls. Furthermore, this technology aligns with Air Force modernization priorities, including the integration of the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) to provide resilient, high-fidelity communications within the Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) architecture.
Initial TRL and Target TRL:
Initial TRL (at the beginning of Phase I): TRL 2 Technology concept and/or application formulated.
Target TRL (at the end of Phase II): TRL 6 System/subsystem model or prototype demonstrated in a relevant environment.
Phase I Efforts:
Conduct foundational research to define key performance parameters (KPPs) for a quantum telemetry receiver, focusing on sensitivity, bandwidth, noise mitigation, and signal fidelity.
Evaluate prospective quantum-based component technologies, such as Rydberg atomic sensors, to assess feasibility and identify candidate designs for further development.
Develop models and simulations to predict system performance under operational conditions, including contested electromagnetic environments.
Perform initial laboratory experiments to validate core concepts and benchmark against classical telemetry systems.
Phase I Minimum Deliverables:
Technical report detailing requirements definition, simulation results, and initial experimental findings.
Performance evaluation against baseline classical telemetry systems.
Preliminary design concept document outlining a scalable path toward prototype development in Phase II.
Phase II Efforts:
Develop and fabricate a prototype quantum telemetry receiver utilizing selected Rydberg sensor technologies and associated subsystems.
Conduct extensive validation testing under relevant environmental conditions, including broadband and high-congestion scenarios.
Integrate the prototype into an existing ABMS-compatible architecture for end-to-end operational assessment.
Establish transition agreements and partnerships with key Air Force stakeholders to facilitate implementation and potential production scaling.
Phase II Minimum Deliverables:
Prototype quantum telemetry receiver, validated through rigorous performance testing in operationally relevant settings.
Comprehensive technical documentation, including system operation and maintenance manuals.
Final report outlining prototype performance, transition feasibility, and cost-benefit analysis compared to legacy telemetry systems.
This initiative represents a critical advancement in quantum science and integrated network system-of-systems, addressing Strategic Communications and Test & Topic Review under the DoD's Key Technology Areas. By exploiting untapped spectrum resources, enhancing signal fidelity, and enabling cost-efficient upgrades, this effort will provide AFTC/412TW with a path toward next-generation telemetry solutions that are resilient, scalable, and aligned with the DoD's long-term operational imperatives.
PHASE I
Phase I will assess the feasibility of an ultra-sensitive quantum telemetry receiver leveraging Rydberg sensors. Outcomes include defined key performance parameters (sensitivity, bandwidth, noise reduction), validated modeling/simulation results, and initial experimental benchmarks versus classical systems. Deliverables: technical report, performance comparisons, and a scalable design concept for Phase II prototyping.
PHASE II
Phase II involves creating and rigorously testing quantum sensing hardware as a working prototype. This means building a system that can be scaled for real-world use, connecting it to an end-to-end telemetry system, and provide an error free wireless communications link. We will also conduct extensive lab tests to evaluate performance, how well the system behaves with existing technology, and how effective the system performs. A key part of this testing involves collecting and analyzing data based on specific metrics like path loss, noise levels, communication speed (latency), security, and overall resilience. Threat vs. victim attacks will also be performed to ensure the system is reliable and accurate when impairments are introduced. Successfully completing this phase will demonstrate this technology is ready for real-world testing, showing a lab proven end-to-end system is ready to move towards practical applications.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS
Phase III focuses on turning a successful prototype into a practical product. Our strategy includes seeking government funding opportunities, refining the prototype into a user-friendly and cost-effective commercial product, and gathering feedback through user testing. We will integrate it seamlessly into existing systems like secure communication channels and control centers. Rigorous field testing will validate its reliability under various conditions. Furthermore, we'll establish manufacturing, support, and training infrastructure, while also securing all necessary certifications and approvals. This will ensuring a smooth transition from research to real-world use and revolutionize telecommunications. A detailed integration plan with older hardware and its expected service lifetime will also be provided.
REFERENCES
U.S. Department of Defense. "DoD Quantum Science and Technology Strategy," October 2021. Accessed at https://www.cto.mil/quantum-strategy/
National Quantum Initiative Act, 2018. Full text available at https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/6227/text
Scholz, M.A., & Ortiz, R.B. "Rydberg Atom-Based Sensors for Quantum Telemetry: A Review of Current Advancements," Journal of Applied Quantum Technologies, Vol. 5, Issue 3, 2023. Accessed at https://jaqt.org
Inter-Range Instrumentation Group (IRIG) Standard 106, "Telemetry Standards," Range Commanders Council. Accessed at https://www.wsmr.army.mil/RCCsite/Pages/IRIG.aspx
Forbes. Moor Insights & Strategy. "Quantum Sensing Unleashed: How Rydberg Sensors Will Disrupt Telecom," February 2024. Accessed at https://www.forbes.com/sites/moorinsights/2024/02/20/quantum-sensing-unleashed-how-rydberg-sensors-will-disrupt-telecom/
Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C). "Quantum Sensing and Communication Initiatives." Accessed at https://quantumconsortium.org/
National Quantum Coordination Office. "The National Quantum Initiative and Enabling Quantum Technologies," 2022. Accessed at http://www.quantum.gov
Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). "Exploiting Quantum Mechanics for Telemetry Applications: Research Framework and Prototypes," AFRL Quantum Sciences Division, 2023.
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